STATEMENT BY INDONESIAN DELEGATION CONSIDERATION OF THAILAND’S UNIVERSAL PERIODIC REPORT BEFORE THE 19TH SESSION OF THE HRC

My delegation would like to warmly welcome Ambassador [Khun] Sihasak and thanks him for his comprehensive statement on the follow up of Thailand commitment on human rights in the post consideration of their UPR report, submitted in October last year.

As one of the troika, Indonesia took note of Thailand’s consistent and genuine commitment on human rights, not only at the national but also at the regional and international levels. This has been reflected in their acceptance of 100 recommendations put forward to Thailand and in providing additional information on the pending 72 recommendations.

Madam President,

My delegation commends the efforts made by Thailand in addressing the inequality and social injustice that has been a factor in fostering social conflict and political unrest over the past 2-3 years. Continued efforts in this regard will enable Thailand to enjoy unbroken stability as determinant factor for the furtherance of the development agenda in the country.

As country of origin of millions of migrant workers, Indonesia appreciates Thailand for accepting our recommendation to strengthen law enforcement in order to provide adequate protection, guarantee the minimum wage and work safety, and to ensure equal access to health services and justice for migrant workers. This best practice should be replicated globally.

Noting the importance of the promotion and protection of the rights of children, we welcome the efforts toward raising the minimun age of criminal responsibility in Thailand, to be more in line with international standards. Equally, Indonesia applauds the current practice of compulsary segregation of juveniles from adults in detention facilities in Thailand.

Lastly, as fellow ASEAN member, Indonesia notes with appreciation the constructive contribution of Thailand in the context of regional human rights machineries and look forward to working closely with Thailand, in enhancing the mandate and functions of the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR) and the ASEAN Commission on the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Women and Children (ACWC).

In conclusion, Madam President, Indonesia recommends that the Council adopt the report and wishes the Government of Thailand all the success in their future endeavors in the promotion and protection of human rights in the country.